Cleaning a bathroom may not be exciting, but it's crucial for maintaining hygiene at home.
With various deep cleaning tasks, knowing where to begin can be tricky.
Thankfully, professionals have shared their top cleaning strategies to help you tackle mold, odors, and grime, ensuring your bathroom feels like a luxurious retreat.
Mastering Bathroom Cleaning
Gathering some essential cleaning supplies beforehand will streamline the process, including:
- Microfiber cloths
- Detail brush sets for grout and tight spaces
- Soft scrub brushes or sponges, like the Scrub Mommy
- All-purpose bathroom cleaner, or create your own DIY cleaner
- Toilet bowl cleaner, like Lysol
1. Start with Decluttering
Cleaning becomes simpler when you're not surrounded by a clutter of products. Start by decluttering the bathroom.
Remove everything from surfaces, including the tub and shower areas, and store away items not frequently used.
Dispose of trash and recycle empty bottles. Don't forget to toss used towels and bathmats into the laundry; it's best to wash towels every 3-4 uses.
2. Dusting Comes Next
Next, focus on dust removal.
A two-phase cleaning technique is effective: start with the Dry Round to eliminate loose dust, hair, and cobwebs. Begin from the top, including ceiling corners and light fixtures, working clockwise around the room.
Vacuuming during this phase prevents debris from clumping during the wet cleaning. Skipping this step complicates future cleaning!
Afterward, proceed to the Wet Round, applying cleaning solutions to the now dust-free surfaces.
3. Let Cleaner Sit in the Toilet
Although cleaning the toilet isn't the first step, Delah Gomasi, a cleaning expert, suggests letting cleaning products sit. Apply toilet cleaner around the bowl and spray sinks and tubs, allowing the products to sit for a few minutes.
Let the toilet cleaner soak for about 10 minutes for optimal grime breakdown.
4. Clean the Bath and Shower
Focus your efforts on the bath and shower first, as they can be the most labor-intensive.
Some prefer using a baking soda paste, while others opt for Clorox Bathroom Ultra Foamer for quick cleaning.
For glass, use a squeegee to avoid water spots. If possible, check if shower liners are machine washable.
5. Refresh Tiles and Grout
Next, focus on tiles and grout.
Using a grout brush with a specialized grout cleaner like Zep can effectively remove stains and bacteria.
For dull tiles, a limescale remover enhances their shine. Test products on inconspicuous areas to ensure compatibility.
6. Finish Up with the Toilet
After allowing the cleaning agents to sit, return to the toilet. Scrub the inside of the bowl with a clean brush, and use an all-purpose cleaner on the seat and exterior, buffing as you go.
7. Clean Mirrors and Accessories
Before cleaning the sink, tidy any accessories on the vanity. Wipe down soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, and other items to ensure they're clean.
Marla Mock recommends polishing mirrors with a glass cleaner, wiping side to side with a lint-free cloth for streak-free results.
8. Scrub the Sink
With the major cleaning complete, focus on the sink using an all-purpose spray.
9. Check the Drains
If your drains are slow, it's crucial to address any clogs. Start by clearing visible debris from the plughole and pour water down to check for improvements.
For stubborn clogs, a mix of vinegar and baking soda can create bubbles to help dislodge build-up.
10. Clean the Floors and Mats
Finish by cleaning the floor to avoid spilling solutions on a freshly cleaned surface. Sweep and vacuum before mopping with warm water and an all-purpose cleaner.
11. Restore Order
Replace toiletries and fresh towels. For added freshness, a few drops of your favorite essential oil in the toilet can combat odors.
FAQs
How often should you clean your bathroom?
While frequency varies, cleaning at least once a week is generally recommended. High-traffic family bathrooms may need more frequent attention, while guest bathrooms can be cleaned less often.
